Battlesbridge, Essex Platform Poster

Battlesbridge, a village on the River Crouch in Essex, a few miles to the north of Rayleigh. As one would expect from the name, there has always been a bridge at Battlesbridge - at least as far back as 1351 - and the present bridge, the 19th century Hawk Hill Bridge, can be seen in this illustration. The other half of Battlesbridge's name has murkier origins, however. While the village may have been the site of a battle, the name may equally derive from the Bataille family of nobles, or from St Botolph, patron saint of wayfarers.

Today, Battlesbridge is perhaps best known for Battlesbridge Antique Centre, which is located in the Old Granary depicted in this illustration. Almost a hundred independent antique dealers operate from the building. Battlesbridge is also known for hosting classic car and motorcycle shows, which we have alluded to in this illustration with a pair of classic cars next to the Old Granary. Local pub the Barge Inn can be seen in the background of this artwork.

This Essex illustration by artist Tom Wisdom is a weatherproof PVC scuff-proof posters as currently featured in stations throughout Essex and South Suffolk.